Skills for Future Automotive Professionals
Join us at the British Motor Museum for one of the most important events for forward-thinkers in the UK automotive industry calendar
We’ll be addressing the key challenges and opportunities in the sector in seminars and panel sessions involving industry leaders and respected strategic thinkers who are happy to take your questions.
We’ve planned an insightful day to give you an in depth look at what the skills needed for future automotive professionals will be. Ranging from electrification autonomous vehicles and connected vehicles to recruitment and new jobs all the way to hearing from and being able to ask questions of a CEO. There really is something for every member.
Our keynote speaker is the inspirational racing driver Nic Hamilton whose personal story of focus and determination to succeed has lessons for anyone grappling with an uncertain future.
Conference takeaways
You will be able to understand:
- What the automotive industry landscape will look like in the future
- How future skills requirements are being shaped by new and emerging vehicle technologies
- Strategies for leveraging digital tools and platforms to enhance customer engagement, satisfaction and conversion
- How to bridge the talent gap, foster an inclusive workplace, and create pathways for upskilling and career advancement
Turbo-charge your career and business
Attract and recruit the talent your business needs to future-proof itself
Retain and progress with the future skills needed for automotive
Skills for future technologies and how they might impact you and your business
Keynote speaker
The amazing Nic Hamilton
Born with cerebral palsy, Nic was told as a child that he would spend his life in a wheelchair. Undaunted, he set about a gruelling programme of training and by the age of 17 he could not only walk unaided but he could start to fulfil his dream of becoming a racing driver.
In a famously competitive and tough sport, Nic has established himself as a potential future champion and will be sharing his inspirational story and belief that ambition is limited only by attitude.
Your speakers and panelists
Daksh Gupta
Group CEO of Huws Gray
Vice President of The IMI
Owen Edwards
Head of Automotive UK
Grant Thornton’s Automotive Advisory practice
Marc Palmer
Head of Strategy and Insights
Auto Trader
Carolyn Bundey
Senior Manager Strategic Projects
The Academy – Toyota GB Plc
Ian Plummer
Commercial Director
Auto Trader UK
David Hawksworth
Customer Engagement Director
Auto Trader
Event agenda
Morning
9:15: Registration opens
10:00 am: Welcome from IMI
10:10 am: The Future Automotive Landscape
This session delves into the trends reshaping the automotive industry, offering a comprehensive look at the future of the sector. Attendees will gain insights into emerging technologies such as electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and advanced connectivity solutions. The discussion will also cover sustainability initiatives and shifting consumer preferences driving innovation in the sector.
10:30 am: Driving Tomorrow: Essential Future Skills for Automotive Professionals
Through expert insights and practical guidance, this session aims to prepare attendees to lead and excel in the dynamic world of tomorrow’s automotive industry. Equipping automotive professionals with the knowledge of the skills needed to navigate the rapidly evolving industry landscape.
Speakers: Owen Edwards, Head of Downstream Automotive, Grant Thornton UK LLP.
11:15 am: Break
11:45 am: Shaping Customer Experience in a Digital Automotive Landscape
In an increasingly digital world, customer experience is emerging as a critical differentiator in the automotive industry. This session explores strategies for leveraging digital tools and platforms to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction. Attendees will learn about innovations such as personalised services, seamless online-to-offline experiences, and the integration of AI and data analytics to anticipate customer needs.
Speakers: Ian Plummer, Commercial Director, Autotrader UK
Afternoon
12:30: Lunch
1:00 pm: Keynote speaker
Nicolas Hamilton
1:30 pm: Mind the Gap: Recruitment and Retention in the Age of Skill Shortages Panel
This panel discussion brings together industry leaders and recruitment experts to explore innovative strategies for recruitment and workforce development. Attendees will gain insights into bridging the talent gap, fostering inclusive workplaces, and creating pathways for upskilling and career advancement. Discover practical solutions to address skill shortages and build a resilient workforce for the future.
Speakers: Carolyn Bundey, Senior Manager Strategic Projects, The Academy – Toyota GB Plc
TBC, Indeed
2:15 pm: In Conversation with Daksh Gupta
2:45 pm: Closing words
3:00 pm: Close
Event details
Date and time: Thursday 23rd October 2025, 10:00-15:00
Location: British Motor Museum, Banbury Road, Gaydon, Warwickshire, CV35 0BJ
Duration: 5 hours
